Men’s Mental Health Awareness Day aims to raise awareness of how signs and symptoms of mental health conditions may present themselves differently in men, and to normalize conversations about mental health issues to reduce the stigma that often prevents men from seeking help.

A 2013 article published in JAMA Psychiatry explored whether the differences in depression rates between men and women are related to the phenomenon of men masking their depression with anger, hostility, risk taking and substance use because they believe it’s socially unacceptable to acknowledge depression publicly and thereby do not seek help.  The study reported that when the above symptoms are considered alongside the conventional symptoms of depression (such as sadness, loss of pleasure, self-criticism, diminished appetite) the rates of depression were no different between men and women.

Some Quick Facts

Approximately one million Canadian men suffered from major depression in 2016

 Men are more likely to deal with their depressive symptoms by drinking alcohol, using drugs or pursuing other risky behaviour

Depression can lead to increased anger, aggression, risk taking and substance use

Untreated depression can lead to suicide

In Canada, suicide is the leading cause of death for all men between ages 10 and 49 (the third highest suicide rate in the industrialized world)

Depressed mood
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness or hopelessness
Loss of interest or pleasure in usually-enjoyed activities
Change in weight or appetite
Sleep disturbances
Decreased energy or fatigue (without significant physical exertion)
Thoughts of death
Poor concentration of difficulty making decisions

If you or someone you know are feeling depressed, contact your doctor or a registered mental health professional.

MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELLING

Sometimes the hardships we experience in life can be overwhelming, and we look to others for guidance and support.  To feel better, it is important that we identify the source of stress or problems, strengthen our ability to cope, and find solutions that are both practical and effective.  

Prime Care Family Health Team is here to support you.  Mental Health Counsellors & Social Workers are a part of our team, and provide various forms of counselling and therapy to help individuals work through several issues, including relationship issues, abuse, stress management, anxiety & depression, addictions, grief, loss, bullying and suicide prevention.

MOOD WALKS

We also offer programs to support healthy mind and body.  Mood Walks is an opportunity for you to connect with nature, people, and the present.  This program serves specifically as an antidote to anxiety and depression, and is offered on an ongoing, weekly basis.  Walks are Wednesday mornings, and use various trails within the Milton community.

Please contact Prime Care Family Health team if you are interested in joining us.

905.878.1720

Click here to learn more

Heads Up Guys (Resource for Men)

Men's Depression: Help Yourself (Resource for Men)

North Halton Mental Health Clinics

Coping Center

Canadian Mental Health Association

Mental Illnesses-Public Health Agency of Canada

Mood Disorders Society of Canada